First impressions matter — whether it’s for a private showing or for online photography that will attract buyers worldwide. A well-prepared property not only photographs beautifully but also creates an emotional connection with potential buyers. Remember, the way your home is presented can really shape a buyer’s impression—and even affect your final sale price. Great photos and videos have become a game changer in real estate marketing over the past few years.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you present your property at its absolute best.

Start with a Deep Clean

Before anything else, make sure your property is spotless.

Floors & Surfaces: Sweep, mop, and polish all surfaces, from tiles to countertops.
Windows: Clean inside and out for bright, natural light.
Bathrooms & Kitchens: Scrub grout, polish fixtures, and remove any visible mold or water stains. Start by removing all personal items from the sink, shower, and tub, including shampoo bottles, soaps, razors, and toothbrushes. Store them in a small bin that can be tucked away under the sink or inside a cabinet.
Clear everything off the bathroom counter. The goal is to create a sleek, hotel-like appearance that feels fresh and spacious. If you want to add a touch of warmth, neatly folded towels on the towel rack are a great finishing touch. Make sure the sink, mirror, and fixtures are spotless—streaks and water spots can be distracting in high-resolution listing photos.
When countertops are completely cleared off, the space looks larger and more inviting, helping buyers picture themselves using the kitchen.

Declutter Every Space

Buyers want to imagine themselves in the home.

Remove personal items such as family photos, collections, or paperwork.
Clear countertops, closets, and entryways to make spaces feel larger.
Organize open shelves and wardrobes to create a sense of order and spaciousness.
Refrigerators often become a catch-all for magnets, notes, calendars, and other personal items. A cluttered fridge can make a kitchen look messy and take attention away from the home’s best features.

Stage for Impact

Good staging highlights your property’s strengths.

Furniture: Arrange to maximize flow and make rooms look spacious. One of the biggest challenges for home sellers is deciding what to keep and what to remove before a real estate photo shoot. While it may be tough to part with certain furniture and décor, clearing out unnecessary or oversized pieces can make a dramatic difference. Open floor space makes rooms feel larger, more inviting, and easier for buyers to visualize as their own.
Start by removing bulky furniture, extra decorations, and personal items that could distract from the home itself. Your goal is to create a balanced look that enhances the space without making it feel empty. In real estate photography, less is often more, and a clean, uncluttered home will always photograph better.
Décor: Add neutral accents — fresh flowers, tasteful artwork, or a stylish throw.
Lighting: Use warm, layered lighting to make spaces feel welcoming. One of the most commonly overlooked details when preparing a home for real estate photos is checking the light bulbs. Walk through each room and test every ceiling light, lamp, and exterior fixture to ensure they are working properly.

If certain areas of the home tend to be dim, like basements or hallways, consider adding extra lighting. Floor lamps that provide upward lighting work especially well for brightening up shadowy spaces. The goal is to make the home look as well-lit and welcoming as possible, as brighter spaces typically photograph better and feel more inviting to potential buyers.
To create a clean and visually appealing space, ensure all beds are fully made with properly fitted sheets, blankets, and comforters that drape evenly over the sides. Choose bedding that complements the room’s decor and avoid mismatched or wrinkled linens. Decorative pillows can add a stylish touch, bringing in pops of colour and texture to make the space feel more inviting. A well-dressed bed helps create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that appeals to potential buyers scrolling through listing photos.
Nightstands and dressers often become catch-all surfaces for everyday items like books, charging cables, tissue boxes, and personal belongings which can make a room look cluttered in real estate photos. To create a clean and polished appearance, remove everything except a lamp and one simple decorative piece, such as a small vase of flowers or a stylish book. This approach helps the space feel organized and inviting, much like a well-kept hotel room. A tidy, minimal look will photograph better and make the bedroom appear more spacious and appealing to potential buyers.

If the property is vacant, consider virtual staging or renting a few key furniture pieces to show off the home’s potential.

Focus on Curb Appeal

Your exterior sets the tone before a buyer steps inside.

Trim hedges, mow lawns, and tidy gardens.
Power-wash driveways, walkways, and patios.
Add potted plants or flowers to entryways for a welcoming touch.
Make sure exterior lighting works for evening viewings.

Highlight Key Features

Identify your property’s selling points and make sure they shine.

Ocean or garden views? Ensure windows are clean and curtains are open.
Outdoor spaces? Stage seating areas to show lifestyle potential.
Upgrades? Have a list of renovations or features ready for the agent and photographer.

Prepare for Photography

Professional photography is the first “showing” most buyers will see.

Schedule the shoot during the day for the best natural light.
Turn on all interior and exterior lights for a bright, inviting atmosphere.
Remove unnecessary items from surfaces to avoid clutter in photos.
Style key rooms — kitchens, living spaces, bedrooms, and outdoor areas — with a touch of colour or texture for visual interest.

Final Touches

Walk through your property with fresh eyes.

Fix small details like squeaky doors, loose knobs, or burnt-out lightbulbs.
Hide trash bins, pet supplies, and excess cables.
Make sure everything looks and smells clean, fresh, and ready.

Conclusion

A well-prepared property isn’t just about looks — it’s about creating a connection. Buyers are drawn to homes they can imagine themselves living in, and professional-quality images can make your listing stand out in a crowded market. With thoughtful preparation, you’ll maximize your property’s value and attract serious buyers faster.

Your home’s marketing is one of the most important factors in selling it quickly and for the best possible price. Ensuring your home is picture-perfect for ta showing or a photography session—is crucial. Overlooking small details can diminish the impact of your listing photos, which are often the first impression buyers will have of your property. Proper preparation will allow your home to shine in photos, attract more buyers, and ultimately lead to stronger offers. With the right approach, you can set your home up for success before the photographer or potential buyer even walks through the door.